It's a common question about sunless tanning, how long will my spray tan last? There is no predetermined amount of time but generally speaking you can expect 7-9 days but it all depends on how you prepare and care for your spray tan. Our sunless tanning experts at STOP and GLOW have listed our top tips on how to make your spray tan last.

1. Preparation is half the battle When it comes to spray tanning, proper preparation can be the determining factor of how long your tan will last. You must exfoliate before each spray tan and we always recommend the night before your spray tan. Some people prefer to exfoliate two nights before their tan but if you exfoliate at least the night before your tan you should see great results.

It's very important to not use bar soap or Dove soap as this type of soap will leave a film residue on your skin and act as a barrier which will prevent the solution from adhering to those areas. This will cause a blotchy appearance once your spray tan develops. We recommend exfoliating with a non oil based, non moisturizing, exfoliating wash to get the best results from your tan. Follow the link for more information on how to prepare for your tan.

2. After spray tan care is just as important We typically recommend our clients wait to rinse off the color guard after 12-24 hours. Most clients will wait 12+ hours before rinsing off but some like to leave it on longer for a darker appearance. When you rinse off do not use hot water. You will want to rinse off using luke warm or cold water, warm water can shorten the life of your spray tan. When rinsing off, use your hand to gently rinse your body. A loofah or wash cloth will exfoliate your skin and ultimately scrub off your spray tan.

When you dry off, pat dry and do not wipe your skin. Delicately pat dry your body to insure you do not wipe or scrub off your tan. As soon as you get out and pat dry, moisturize your body to lock in the spray tan. It's very important to remember to moisturize at least 3 times daily following your spray tan. When you moisturize you are hydrating your skin and sealing in your sunless tan which will help the tan last longer. Follow the link for more information on how to care for your spray tan.

3. Pick up a tan extenderMost spray tan extenders will moisturize and bronze. A tan extender is used to add additional DHA to your skin but wait until day 3 or day 4 after your spray tan to use a tan extender. After a few days your tan will slowly start to fade from it's optimal state. We suggest using Norvell Sunless Prolong to help extend the life of your tan. We stock this product and our technicians also use this tan extender which will help keep your skin glowing and provide a nice boost of bronze when you need it most.

4. Drink plenty of waterThis one is often over looked when you think about extending the life of your spray tan but it goes hand in hand with moisturizing and keeping your skin hydrated. When your skin is dehydrated it can flake and peel and it will shorten the life of your tan. If you drink plenty of water your skin will be healthy and glow. You can also read up on how to prevent an uneven fading tan by staying hydrated and moisturizing.

5. Stay out of swimming pools and hot tubsWe provide spray tans to many clients that go away on vacation and we constantly remind our clients that if they want their tan to last than you must avoid pools, hot tubs and the ocean. Soaking in hot tubs or swimming will without a doubt shorten the life of your tan. Chlorine and salt water will fade the tan so you will not get the normal 7-9 days of spray tan life span. If you want to get the longest life out of your sunless tan, stay away from soaking in water.

These are STOP and GLOW's top 5 tips on how to make your spray tan last longer. There are many other factors involved so educate yourself and read our blog for more spray tan tips.

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STOP AND GLOW Mobile Spray Tanning was started in West Chester, PA in 2011. We strive to provide you with a professional, safe and convenient service. We want you to be comfortable and relaxed during your spray tanning session for a better overall spray tanning experience! Read More